Deadly Defoe praises team-mates

23 June 2010 06:10

Sharp-shooter Jermain Defoe hailed his team-mates after England beat Slovenia 1-0 in a crucial World Cup Group C clash to secure their place in the last 16.
Defoe scored the only goal of the game midway through the first half when he deflected James Milner's cross past Samir Handanovic to set up a potential mouth-watering date with Germany on Sunday afternoon.
The Three Lions looked a different proposition in Port Elizabeth compared with their limp display against Algeria five days ago as Fabio Capello brought Defoe and James Milner into the side at the expense of Emile Heskey and Aaron Lennon.
Matthew Upson slotted in at the heart of the defence for the suspended Jamie Carragher.
Speaking after the victory, Tottenham striker Defoe said: "We won the game, that's the most important thing.
"At the end of the day it's a must-win game, it's a cup final so obviously you approach the game differently.
"First ten minutes we put them under pressure and set the tempo and to get the goal early on was dead on. Then we started to pass it, it was brilliant.
"I had an early one (a chance) in the second half. I'm a little bit disappointed with it and should have done better, really. But we've won the game and we're through now so I'm delighted.
"The fans were brilliant. Obviously it's been difficult for them. They weren't happy with the previous performances and I'm happy that they've had something to celebrate."